Part Two: Jane Austen, Dramatized

"Jane Austen, Dramatized" tells the story of how Austen came (albeit late) to the stage, changing things for the author's reputation and her novels ever after. The chapters in this section consider Austen's pioneering dramatic adapters; her earliest Darcys (sexy and not); two actors who performed the roles of Jane and Cassandra Austen on stage in a little-discussed "bioplay"; and the failed screenplays that led to the first Hollywood Austen film, MGM's Pride and Prejudice (1940). Further images to accompany those chapters are liked below.

Chapter 4: First Austen Dramatist

Chapter 5: Playing Mr Darcy

Chapter 6: Dear Jane

Chapter 7: Stage to Screen

Is It right for your book club?

Yes, definitely! The paperback edition now includes a brief reader's guide with discussion questions. I'd love to hear from you if you're considering choosing it.

This book works best in clubs familiar with Austen's fiction OR its film adaptations. (You could read or watch Pride and Prejudice and then choose this book.)